Plenty of nerves for band Lifehouse at All-Star Game

2012 NHL All-Star Weekend blogPlenty of nerves for band Lifehouse at All-Star Game

When the NHL called, the Canadian bass guitarist Bryce Soderberg answered for his top-hits band Lifehouse. The band played at the Molson Canadian NHL All-Star Pre-Game Celebration before Sunday's game pitting Team Alfredsson and Team Chara.

"It's the NHL, we had to come," said Soderberg, explaining the band has been working on its newest album in Los Angeles. "I told the guys we had to do it."

Soderberg grew up in British Columbia like every kid, he said: "Born with a hockey stick and skates." He is a staunch Vancouver Canucks fan ("it's great to see the Sedins both here; I am wondering why Roberto Luongo isn't an All-Star) but his best friend in hockey is recently retired Dallas Stars center Mike Modano.

"We met at a concert in Dallas," said Soderberg. "He is a fan of the band and I became a fan of his. We keep in touch."

Soderberg's enthusiasm for the Canucks has rubbed off on lead singer and guitarist Jason Wade.

"I have become a Vancouver fan," said Wade. "It makes sense, since I grew up in Port Orchard, Wash."

Wade said the group's new album requires "turning the brain off and not thinking about anything." Wade and his band members talked to NHL.com before their 75-minute gig in Ottawa's downtown convention center.

Hours later, Detroit goalie Jimmy Howard was talking about "knots in his stomach" during player introductions. In similar fashion, Wade talked about still feeling nervous before performing too.

"If you stop being nervous, you stop caring," said Wade. "We'll be like that with this band."